Kenyan Caught in Myanmar Digital Fraud Network Desperate for Repatriation

Kenyans lured by the promise of overseas jobs are finding themselves trapped in sophisticated fraud syndicates in Southeast Asia, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.

Peter Mwangi, a 28-year-old Kenyan, is among 67 citizens recently rescued from a Myanmar-based operation where they were forced to participate in online scams targeting US citizens. He shares that many more Kenyans remain trapped. Mwangi's ordeal began with the promise of a customer service job in Thailand. He paid an agent Sh 150,000 based on assurances from a friend.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, Mwangi and other recruits were transported to Myanmar and coerced into becoming part of a fraud ring. Their tasks involved posing as wealthy buyers to deceive US realtors into investing in fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes. Each team was expected to generate $10,000 daily, with harsh penalties, including confinement and food deprivation, for those who failed to meet the target.

Victims endured grueling 19-hour workdays under strict surveillance, with limited communication with the outside world. The rescued Kenyans are now awaiting repatriation, but according to Mwangi, they are experiencing delays. He notes that while other countries, such as Indonesia, Nepal, and Pakistan, have already repatriated their citizens, Kenya has yet to respond.

Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu has confirmed the government's commitment to bringing the stranded citizens home, stating that 28 Kenyans have already been repatriated, and efforts are underway to rescue the remaining individuals.
Humanitarian organizations are raising concerns about the unsanitary conditions faced by those awaiting repatriation, warning of potential disease outbreaks, including tuberculosis.